Bar Council focuses in on health and wellbeing at the Bar

21 October 2014

The Bar Council has launched a survey to assess health and
wellbeing at the Bar, and to identify risk factors which may impact
on a barrister's performance.

The survey forms part of a larger wellbeing project coordinated
by the Bar Council, which aims to provide valuable insights into
the unique aspects of a barristers' working environment and how
this impacts on psychological health and wellbeing.

The project is supported by the Inns of Court, the Institute of
Barristers' Clerks, the Charlie Waller Memorial Trust, and Law
Care.

Data collected from the survey aims to highlight wellbeing as
fundamental to sustaining performance as a barrister, and to
empower and equip members in addressing risky behaviours which
affect their performance.

Responses are anonymous and treated as strictly confidential,
with data analysed by an independent third party. Only aggregated
data will be made available.

Nicholas Lavender QC, Chairman of the Bar,
said:

"The Bar Council is committed to equipping the profession with
the skills and knowledge to recognise and address
behaviours which might impact on their wellbeing and
performance as a result of workplace pressures.

"By undertaking this vital research, we plan to develop
practical tools and learning materials to support barristers in
sustaining their performance whilst managing the demands of
practice.

"Wellbeing, and mental health more generally, within the legal
profession is rarely spoken about. Through our wellbeing campaign,
we aim to dismantle the stigma associated with seeking help.

"Given the recent increased pressures on the Bar, there has
never been a more important time to give this issue the attention
it deserves."

Rachel Spearing, Barrister and Chair of the Wellbeing at
the Bar Programme,said:

"The Bar, by its very nature, is a stressful place to work. From
the speed at which cases can change to the often isolating nature
and responsibilities of self-employed practice, barristers are
acutely at risk from performance-inhibiting factors.

"It is also equally important that we support those entering the
profession to develop the skills needed to manage their wellbeing
in a challenging work environment.

"Now, more than ever, we need to encourage discussion on the
topic and rethink our attitudes towards health and wellbeing."

ENDS

Notes to Editors

1. Further information is available from the Bar Council Press
Office on 020 7222 2525 and Press@BarCouncil.org.uk.